MAKASSAR — Hasanuddin University (Unhas) is expanding its network of academic and research cooperation with South Korea through a partnership with the Busan Indonesia Center (BIC). The collaboration opens opportunities for further education, research, and capacity building for Unhas human resources.
The cooperation was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed by Unhas Rector Prof. Dr. Ir. Jamaluddin Jompa, M.Sc., and Busan Indonesia Center President Prof. Kim Soo-il. The signing took place in the Rector’s Meeting Room, 8th Floor of the Unhas Rectorate Building, on Monday (21 September).
The MoU serves as the foundation for both parties to develop academic and research programs, expand knowledge exchange, and build networks with universities in South Korea.
One focus raised by Unhas is building the capacity of young lecturers through opportunities for further study at partner universities abroad. Prof. JJ said international networks need to be used concretely to open academic access and broaden lecturers’ experience in a global educational environment.
“We want to encourage young Unhas lecturers to continue their studies through our partner networks abroad. We hope the Busan Indonesia Center can be a link that opens access and connects them with partner universities in Korea, so that this cooperation brings real benefits to the development of Unhas human resources,” Prof. JJ explained.
According to Prof. JJ, access to international university networks can also strengthen opportunities for research collaboration and knowledge exchange. Academic experience abroad is expected to broaden lecturers’ scholarly perspectives while strengthening research networks that can be developed after they return to Unhas.
BIC President Prof. Kim Soo-il said the cooperation opens wider space for education and research relations between Indonesia and South Korea. BIC’s network in South Korea can be used to connect Unhas with a range of academic opportunities and higher education institutions.
“We hope this agreement opens opportunities to build closer academic relations, expand knowledge exchange, and develop research collaboration that brings mutual benefit,” Prof. Kim explained.
After the MoU signing, both parties will identify priority areas and forms of programs that can be developed. The discussions will cover opportunities for further education, research cooperation, and strengthening academic networks between Unhas and universities in South Korea.
BIC is an institution that facilitates relations between Indonesia and South Korea, particularly in human resources, education, and training. Through its network, BIC also opens access to higher education opportunities and cooperation with universities in South Korea. (*/mir)
Editor: Ishaq Rahman
This article is an English translation of the original Indonesian report.